Advertisement
Saying goodbye is never easy but having this particular exhibition come to a close is especially difficult. Bluesman Robert Johnson is a legend, and artist Andre L. Miller has created a truly historic art exhibition about his life, that is a must see for any blues lover. "The Redemption of a Delta Bluesman: Robert Johnson" consists of twenty-nine paintings that focus on the life and legacy of this legendary musician. Although only 27 years old when he died in 1938, his music and style has influenced generations of artists who came after. In American music history, Robert Johnson is known as the "King of the Delta Blues."
After a three month stay at the DCC, this exhibition is ending, but we decided to throw a party to see it go. In 1936, Robert Johnson recorded a song titled, " I Believe I'll Dust My Broom" in which he mentioned West Helena. He played in numerous clubs and jukes here during his career, and it was an honor to host this look into the life of a legend.
This party will feature entertainment by Keith "The Prince of the Delta Blues" Johnson, from just across the river in Mississippi. In addition to touring and songwriting, Keith Johnson has won numerous awards including the 2016 local International Blues Challenge Competition. Long a partner with the DCC, we are excited to offer a free concert from this accomplished musician.
There will also be a lecture by Blues aficionado Scott Barretta, who is a writer, researcher, and radio host. After first visiting the state to attend blues festivals and check out juke joints, Barretta moved to Mississippi in 1999 to edit "Living Blues" magazine. In addition to these duties, he has a radio show called "Highway 61" and also worked as a writer and researcher for the Mississippi Blues Trail. In 2016, Scott Barretta won the Mississippi Arts Commission (MAC) Governor's Award for Excellence in the Arts for Mississippi Heritage.
While at Helena, please stop by our local restaurants and the other unique offerings we have in this historic river town.
Location:
DCC Visitor Center
141 Cherry Street
Helena-West Helena, Arkansas 72342
This event is free, and we look forward to seeing visitors from all over the Mid-South from Memphis, Little Rock, and Clarksdale.
Advertisement
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
141 Cherry St, Helena, AR, United States, Arkansas 72342
